Restaurants

With a name like Spice Emporium, it’s no surprise to see that the Westin Dubai’s Thai restaurant qualifies comfortably as one of the city’s ‘hotspots’. While meat, poultry, and vegetable dishes are on the menu, the restaurant specialises in seafood, with spicy deep-fried cod and hot seafood soufflé packing a particularly potent punch. And just as the fiery flavours transport the diner to Bangkok, the décor of the restaurant – tables of dark wood, evocative artwork and open kitchens where flames leap into the air – ensures that the authentic ambience of Thailand is carried through the whole experience.

Imagine being encircled by Dubai’s world famous dancing fountains while dining by candlelight—this fine-dining Thai restaurant is about as romantic as it gets. With a magical location and a menu that is sure to capture your attention, Thiptara is the perfect setting for a special celebration or that all-important question. Try the tantalizing massaman curry or the stir-fried scallops for a dining experience that is not to be missed. Tel No. +971 4 888 3444

Anantara’s first Dubai property, Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa, recently launched its signature Thai restaurant, Mekong. The restaurant is the second Mekong outlet at an Anantara property – the original outlet is located in Anantara Xishuangbanna, China – and the first in the region.

This Taiwan-based chain is renowned for the long queues its dumplings generate all over the world – but luckily at their Dubai location, it’s never more than 30 minutes at peak dining times. Kids will love the crispy wontons and fried rice, while adults should head straight for the famed xiao long bao and braised beef tendon soup. Tel No. +971 4 265 1288

Enjoy Great Food At Thai Terrace Stop by Thai Terrace in the Attar Centre, near Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel and Burjuman Mall, for a fresh, delicious taste of authentic Thai that can compete with the real thing. Popular dishes include the fish cakes, green curry and pad thai. If you’re looking for a good Thai feast, Thai Terrace is certainly the place to visit.

Enjoy A Feast At Sukhothai Inspired by the Thai Sukhothai period (1238 to 1438), this restaurant exudes warmth with a traditional wooden interior and notably friendly team of staff. Start with a classic Thai appetizer, such as Satay Gai Rue Nuea or Thod Man Pla (deep-fried King Fish Cake). Follow with a soup, or delve straight in for mains, which include Pla Nueng Manao (deep fried Sea Breem) or curries such as Gaeng Phed Ped Yang (red duck curry).

If you’re searching for Thai cuisine in a luxury setting, you’ll think you’ve struck gold at Benjarong. Although this is a chain, the tempting menu makes this restaurant stand out from the crowds. Choose from an array of Thai delicacies and soak up the relaxing atmosphere along with your elegant surroundings. It is quite easy to impress both you and your guests, but book first to avoid any disappointment.

This renowned restaurant specialises in a variety of Thai cuisine, from unique regional dishes, to authentic classics and even celebrated street food. It’s a very trendy, modern space. Expect dark lighting, bright neon flashes of light and oriental decor features like hanging intricate temple bells. Try menu favourites such as Saku Sai Gai (tapioca dumplings), Kung Yang Phuket (grilled tiger prawns) and Phad Pak Choi Sai Hed (Pak Choi Stir Fry). Telephone +971 [0] 4 414 3000 Email jwdubai.dining@marriotthotels.com

You’ll find Smiling BKK tucked away on a side street near Safa Park, a spot where yummy food is topped with good humour and superb service. The cheekily named dishes are reasonably priced and you can expect pages from gossip mags as place mats. Participate in special theme nights such as ‘Sing for your Supper,’ which embodies the spirit that sets Smiling BKK apart. Ultimately though, it’s delicious Thai food that will make you a return customer. Telephone +971 [0] 4 286 8060